In preparation for ITB China in May 12025, organisers are setting up several high-calibre buyers’ meetings in several key regions throughout China beginning in October.

These events are meant to explore potential collaborations, discuss new trends in Chinese outbound travel, and enable travel professionals to share valuable industry insights.

Likewise, these meetings are part of the broader activities of the ITB China Buyers Circle, an exclusive network of influential buyers and industry experts.

Beyond mere networking

Held in six selected cities, the events serve as a network for various travel industry stakeholders, to drive collective growth and innovation across the industry. 

Each Meetup aims to explore pivotal topics influencing the future of the outbound travel market. 

Discussions will centre on the latest trends and popular destinations, examining the factors that both drive and hinder emerging business in different regions. The evolving online travel ecosystem, including strategies for travel agents to adapt and succeed in this dynamic landscape, will be among the topics for discussion. 

Additionally, the Meetups will address the shifting needs of buyers, particularly in terms of the destination partners they require to meet new market demands, as well as highlighting opportunities within the outbound MICE travel sector, providing insights into identifying and managing market opportunities.

A hectic schedule

The first Meetup kicks off on 17 October in Chengdu, targeting the southwest market. This will be followed by a Meetup on 28 November in Xi’an, focusing on the northwest market. 

Towards the end of the year, ITB China will host additional gatherings on 18 and 19 December in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, concentrating on the south market. 

The series will continue in 2025 with a Meetup on 18 February in Hangzhou, targeting the east market, and will wrap up with the final event on 20 March in Shanghai.